Feeling overwhelmed by a cluttered closet? You’re not alone! Closet chaos is something many of us struggle with, but with the right approach, you can transform even the most disorganized wardrobe into a space that feels spacious and functional. In this closet organization guide, I’ll walk you through the exact steps I’ve used to maintain a tidy and organized closet. Whether you’re aiming for a complete overhaul or just some quick tidying, these tips will help you make the most of your space.
Step 1: Empty Everything Out
Yes, everything! Start with a clean slate by taking every item out of your closet. I know it’s tempting to skip this step (I’ve been guilty of doing that before), but trust me—it’s essential. Seeing all your clothes, shoes, and accessories outside the closet will give you a fresh perspective on what you really need and use.
Pro Tip: Lay everything on your bed. This forces you to finish organizing before bedtime!
Step 2: Sort Items into Categories
Now that your closet is empty, sort everything into these four piles:
- Keep – Items you wear and love.
- Donate or Sell – Things you no longer use but are still in good condition.
- Repair – Items that need mending, like a button replacement.
- Trash – Worn-out pieces that aren’t worth fixing.
When I did this last winter, I was surprised by how many items I was holding onto “just in case” but never actually wore. Be honest with yourself—if it’s been sitting unused for over a year, it’s time to let it go.
Step 3: Assess Your Closet Space
Once everything is sorted, take a moment to assess your closet layout.
- Are your shelves cluttered?
- Do you have enough hanging space?
- Are shoes and accessories easy to find?
If you feel like your closet isn’t optimized, you might need to add storage solutions such as bins, drawer dividers, or hanging organizers. When I added a hanging shoe rack and shelf dividers to my setup, I instantly gained more space!
Step 4: Use Storage Solutions Wisely
Maximize your space with smart storage options. Here are some ideas I’ve found particularly helpful:
- Velvet hangers: Save space and prevent clothes from slipping off.
- Shelf dividers: Keep stacks of sweaters or jeans from toppling over.
- Clear bins: Ideal for seasonal items—out of sight but easy to grab when needed.
- Hooks: Perfect for scarves, hats, or bags that take up too much drawer space.
Pro Tip: Store less-used items (like winter coats or fancy dresses) on the highest shelf or farthest corner of the closet. Keep everyday items easily accessible.
Step 5: Organize by Category and Color
Now that everything has a home, it’s time to put items back in the closet. I recommend grouping clothing by category (tops, bottoms, dresses) and then color within each category. This makes it easier to find what you’re looking for, and it looks visually pleasing too!
When I started color-coding my wardrobe, getting dressed became quicker and less stressful—it’s amazing how much difference this small change can make.
Step 6: Implement a Seasonal Rotation (Optional)
If your closet space is limited, consider rotating your wardrobe seasonally. Store out-of-season clothes in labeled bins or under-bed storage. I do this every six months—it not only clears up space but also makes room for new wardrobe updates.
Bonus Tip: Use lavender sachets or cedar blocks in your storage bins to keep clothes smelling fresh and prevent moth damage.
Step 7: Maintain the System
The key to an organized closet is regular upkeep. Set aside 10–15 minutes each week to put things back in place. I also do a quick review at the start of every season to see if there’s anything I no longer need.
Creating habits like returning clothes to their designated spot or folding items neatly can go a long way toward preventing future clutter.
Final Thoughts
Organizing your closet might seem daunting, but with a little time and effort, you can turn it into a functional, beautiful space that makes getting dressed a breeze. I hope this closet organization guide helps you take control of your wardrobe! Trust me, once everything is in order, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
